Basilikos is Greek meaning ‘royal’ or the king of herbs. It is believed that in ancient times basil was an ingredient in the special oil used to anoint new kings. The Greek Orthodox Church still uses basil in the holy water.

According to the legend, aromatic basil grew around the grave at the time of the resurrection of Jesus. In Indian culture basil is a holy plant and in former days, basil played a role during the swearing-in of witnesses in court. In Indian folk tradition basil is dedicated to the gods Krishne and Vischnu and the herb is often used in Ayuvedic herbal medicine for its antiseptic efficacy.

Pregnant women should not eat greater amounts of basil, but using the herb on the skin should not be problematic.